The South African division of MTN Group (MTNJ.J) announced on Wednesday that it has witnessed a 15% enhancement in network availability. This improvement stems from the continuous investment undertaken to guarantee the optimal performance of its mobile network, particularly in the face of the most severe power outages on record.
In the backdrop of a deteriorating national power grid, which has plunged Africa’s most advanced economy into darkness for up to 10 hours daily, mobile operators such as MTN, Vodacom (VODJ.J), and the predominantly state-owned Telkom (TKGJ.J) are working diligently to secure the continuity of their network operations.
MTN South Africa’s Chief Executive, Charles Molapisi, remarked, “This is an enduring struggle, but our dedication remains unwavering as we endeavor to ensure a dependable and robust network for our customers.”
MTN has recently announced a substantial investment ranging from 4.5 billion to 5 billion rand ($233 million) in its network infrastructure, aimed at sustaining customer connectivity during the prevailing power crisis. As part of this initiative, MTN has strategically deployed over 20,000 batteries, 5,000 rectifiers, and nearly 900 diesel generators to numerous sites across the country, reinforcing its commitment to keeping its network operational.
As of now, MTN has successfully upgraded over 5,000 network sites, implementing enhancements such as battery installations, rectifier swaps, backup generator installations, and improved security measures to safeguard against theft and vandalism. Notably, in the month of August alone, MTN undertook upgrades for an additional 2,000 sites, underscoring its proactive approach to network improvement and protection.